Why Donald Trump’s Golf Course Has Been ‘Blacklisted’ from Hosting The Open
Donald Trump’s Turnberry golf course in Scotland, once considered one of the finest venues in golf, has been effectively blacklisted from hosting The Open Championship. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A), the governing body responsible for organizing the prestigious tournament, has made it clear that they have no plans to return to Turnberry as long as Trump remains the owner.
The R&A’s Decision
The Open Championship, one of golf’s four major tournaments, has been played at Turnberry four times, most recently in 2009. However, after Trump purchased the course in 2014 and made extensive renovations, the R&A has refused to include it in the tournament’s rotation.
In January 2021, following the U.S. Capitol riots, the R&A issued a statement confirming that The Open would not return to Turnberry in the foreseeable future. The organization stated, “We will not return until we are convinced that the focus will be on the championship, the players, and the course itself.” The concern is that Trump’s association with the course would overshadow the event, shifting attention away from the game and onto political controversies.
Concerns Over Security and Protests
Another key reason behind the R&A’s reluctance to include Turnberry in its plans is security. Given Trump’s polarizing status, hosting The Open at Turnberry could lead to mass protests, heightened security risks, and unwanted distractions. A source close to the decision described Trump’s ownership as a “serious security risk,” adding that demonstrations could disrupt the championship and create logistical challenges.
The R&A aims to keep The Open a politically neutral event, ensuring that the tournament remains focused on golf rather than external controversies. Bringing the championship to Turnberry under Trump’s ownership could complicate that mission.
Trump’s Reaction and Failed Efforts
Trump has long sought to have Turnberry reinstated as a venue for The Open. He has often boasted about the course’s improvements and claimed that it is one of the best in the world. However, his efforts to convince the R&A have been unsuccessful.
In 2023, Eric Trump, the former president’s son, met with Scottish officials and golf administrators in an attempt to lobby for Turnberry’s return to The Open rotation. Despite these efforts, the R&A has stood firm in its decision, signaling that they will not consider Turnberry while Trump is the owner.
Turnberry’s Prestige vs. Its Controversial Ownership
There is no denying that Turnberry is one of the most iconic golf courses in the world. The venue hosted legendary moments, including the famous 1977 “Duel in the Sun” between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus. Many players and fans recognize the course’s historical significance and outstanding design.
However, despite its golfing prestige, the baggage associated with Trump’s ownership remains a major obstacle. The R&A’s decision suggests that as long as Turnberry remains under Trump’s control, it will continue to be left out of The Open rotation.
Conclusion
Trump’s Turnberry is effectively blacklisted from hosting The Open, not because of its quality as a golf course, but because of its controversial ownership. The R&A is unwilling to risk turning the championship into a political spectacle or a security challenge. Unless there is a change in ownership, it appears unlikely that The Open will return to Turnberry anytime soon.
